Blank Check with Griffin & David

In this engaging conversation, David Lowery, acclaimed filmmaker behind 'A Ghost Story', joins to dissect David Lynch's 'Lost Highway'. They ponder if it's Lynch's most visually stunning work or just an elaborate headache. The duo explore its links to the O.J. Simpson trial, the transformative power of character performances, and how the film plays with the concept of identity. They also reflect on Lynch's cinematic evolution and the emotional resonance of surreal storytelling, making connections to the jazz world and the art of film itself.

Hallie Meyer Shire, a filmmaker and daughter of renowned director Nancy Meyers, joins to discuss the bizarre potential of Joker sequels and cinematic dreams. They dive into the complexities of character portrayals, especially Michael Keaton's multifaceted roles, and critique the missed opportunities in the Joker films. The conversation also swirls around industry trends, the charm of shallow narratives, and personal anecdotes that offer a reflective look at the evolution of storytelling in film.

In this discussion, filmmaker Arkasha Stevenson, known for directing The First Omen, shares how David Lynch's unsettling film Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me shaped her filmmaking journey. She recounts the impactful experience of discovering Lynch's work and the deeper themes surrounding Laura Palmer's transformation from object to a complex character. The conversation dives into how the film navigates trauma, societal indifference, and the emotional weight borne by its characters, all while highlighting Lynch's unique directorial choices.

If we told you this was the first time we’d covered a Nicolas Cage movie on the podcast - would you believe us? Well, baby - it’s true. And what a movie it is! The luminous Tatiana Maslany returns to talk about David Lynch’s smokin’ hot outlaw romance WILD AT HEART - a film that won the Palme d’Or and took Lynch away from the set of Twin Peaks. Get ready for lots of Cage career discussion (a favorite topic of Griffin Newman), a bunch of actor speak, and multiple “hey, did you know David Lynch was a fan of the Wizard of Oz?” asides.Join our Patreon for franchise commentaries and bonus episodes.Follow us @blankcheckpod on Twitter, Instagram, Threads and Facebook! Buy some real nerdy merchConnect with other Blankies on our Reddit or DiscordFor anything else, check out BlankCheckPod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eva Anderson, a former resident of the Twin Peaks filming location, shares her unique insights into the show’s cultural impact. She humorously critiques the infamous diner cherry pie and reflects on the show's legacy within Middle America. The discussion explores the deep-rooted connections between its characters and the eerie atmosphere crafted by David Lynch. Throughout, they delve into Agent Cooper's quirky personality and the surreal narrative style that defined a generation, all while enjoying delightful banter about local dining and nostalgic anecdotes.

Jamie Loftus, a comedian and author known for her insightful takes on pop culture, joins the conversation to dissect David Lynch's 'Blue Velvet'. The dialogue dives into Kyle MacLachlan’s star persona and explores Lynch's fascination with Americana, all while questioning how such a disturbing film remains so captivating. They also reflect on the complex character dynamics, themes of vulnerability, and societal critiques woven throughout the narrative, wrapped in Loftus's signature humor and sharp observations.

Dive into the chaotic world of 'Beetlejuice' as the hosts dissect Tim Burton's whimsical style and the cultural nostalgia surrounding the iconic film. They hilariously debate the film's quirks, the challenges of sequels, and the evolution of character dynamics. Musical moments, like the absurd MacArthur Park scene, spark lively discussions, while reflections on contemporary actress portrayals reveal generational shifts in cinema. With humor and insight, they balance critiques of legacy sequels alongside playful speculation about imaginary Tim Burton films.

John Hodgman, a comedian and writer best known for Judge John Hodgman, joins the discussion about David Lynch’s 1984 film Dune. They delve into the cultural impact and legacy of the film, sharing humorous anecdotes and critiques. Hodgman highlights the peculiarities of the Dune universe, including its infamous glossary and the challenges of its adaptations. The conversation contrasts Lynch’s and Denis Villeneuve’s takes on Dune, exploring themes of creativity, nostalgia, and the complexities of the source material while keeping it light and entertaining.

We’re getting in touch with our emotions this week, as Alex Ross Perry joins us to talk about Lynch’s deeply-felt, sensitively-rendered 1980 classic THE ELEPHANT MAN. Is this the most “normal” movie in Lynch’s filmography? What does “normal” mean, anyway? As with all Alex episodes, questions are posed and hotly debated, such as: What filmmakers, aside from David Lynch, made their most important work in the later part of their careers? What is the Lynch film that young people vibe with most strongly now? Did Michael Jackson actually attempt to purchase the Elephant Man’s bones? When will the Cinematrix puzzle get rid of the godforsaken “Rotten Tomatoes score” category? What does David Sims have against the famous David Foster Wallace profile of David Lynch? Join our Patreon for franchise commentaries and bonus episodes.Follow us @blankcheckpod on Instagram, Threads, Facebook and X! Buy some real nerdy merch.Connect with other Blankies on our Reddit or DiscordFor anything else, check out BlankCheckPod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into the bizarre world of David Lynch’s debut feature, where confusion meets dark humor. Explore themes of anxiety and alienation as the hosts reflect on their experiences with 'Eraserhead'. Delight in the whimsical discussion about the stork mythology surrounding baby deliveries, and laugh along with their take on the unsettling duality of enjoying animal products. Learn about Lynch's artistic roots while unraveling the surreal legacy of his work, all sprinkled with playful anecdotes and amusing insights.